For a Good Cause: Euphoria and Dina Manzo Love Ladybugs

August 24, 2010byJennifer Heebner

Ladybugs mean a lot more than luck to Euphoria Fine Jewelry and to Real Housewife of New Jersey Dina Manzo. The Englewood, N.J., jeweler teamed up with reality-TV star Manzo and her Project Ladybug organization—founded to brighten the lives of pediatric cancer patients—to create the Red and Black Collection of ladybug-motif jewels. Proceeds benefit the Ladybug Fund, which aids St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital in Paterson, N.J.

The funds raised aid seriously ill children and their families by paying heating bills, buying winter coats, throwing birthday parties—even springing for spa days for beleaguered moms. In the three years since the inception of Project Ladybug, Manzo has helped raise tens of thousands of dollars.

Manzo and Euphoria president Edward Ezgilioglu hatched the idea at a fundraising event two years ago. “Originally it was supposed to be just one piece,” says Ezgilioglu. “But one turned into five or six—we couldn’t contain ourselves!” The ­jewels debuted at a swanky private affair last spring at the Brownstone in Paterson (very Real Housewives!); so far, 60 of the bejeweled bugs have been sold. Five styles—earrings, a bracelet, and three pendant necklaces—are available in retail prices from $200 to $4,990; one necklace is sterling and enamel, and the rest are 18k gold and enamel; a few comprise dia­monds and other gems. The biggest seller? The silver Lady Hope necklace for $200. “Grandparents order six to eight at a time for their grandchildren,” says Ezgilioglu.